BonfemAre you a foreign healthcare worker dreaming of relocating to the United States? The U.S. healthcare system is currently facing a massive shortage of qualified professionals, and employers are actively sponsoring skilled foreigners through work visas, green cards, and relocation packages.
This guide reveals the 11 best healthcare jobs for foreigners in the USA with visa sponsorship, along with average salaries, visa types, hiring tips, and how to land these life-changing opportunities legally.
Why Work in Healthcare in the USA?
Here’s why healthcare jobs in the USA are among the best for foreigners seeking visa sponsorship:
- High salaries and job stability
- EB-3 and H-1B visa sponsorship available
- Pathways to green card and U.S. citizenship
- Family-friendly relocation packages
- Global demand for nurses, doctors, therapists, and caregivers
11 Best Healthcare Jobs in the USA with Visa Sponsorship
1. Registered Nurse (RN)
Average Salary: $70,000 – $100,000/year
Visa Type: EB-3 Green Card, H-1B (in rare cases)
Who’s Hiring: Hospitals, care homes, international agencies
The U.S. urgently needs foreign RNs. Many U.S.-based employers directly sponsor nurses under the EB-3 immigrant visa, covering licensing, relocation, and NCLEX prep.
2. Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Average Salary: $28,000 – $45,000/year
Visa Type: EB-3 Unskilled Worker Visa
Who’s Hiring: Nursing homes, elderly care centers, home health agencies
Even with minimal qualifications, foreigners can apply for CNA roles. Many agencies handle visa paperwork, training, and accommodation, especially for African and Asian applicants.
3. Physical Therapist (PT)
Average Salary: $80,000 – $105,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, EB-2 (Advanced Degree Holders)
Who’s Hiring: Rehab centers, private hospitals, sports clinics
PTs are on the U.S. shortage occupation list, and many employers are eager to sponsor those with a valid foreign license and a U.S. credential evaluation.
4. Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $75,000 – $95,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, EB-2
Who’s Hiring: Pediatric clinics, nursing homes, hospitals
OTs are in high demand in U.S. healthcare facilities that treat seniors, stroke patients, and children with special needs.
5. Medical Technologist / Lab Technician
Average Salary: $60,000 – $80,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, EB-3
Who’s Hiring: Diagnostic labs, hospitals, research institutions
The U.S. is currently importing foreign-trained medical technologists to meet diagnostic demands, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
6. Home Health Aide (HHA)
Average Salary: $22,000 – $35,000/year
Visa Type: EB-3 Unskilled Worker Green Card
Who’s Hiring: Private families, home care agencies
Home health aides are among the few unskilled roles eligible for sponsorship under the EB-3 visa. Training is often provided upon arrival.
7. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Average Salary: $55,000 – $70,000/year
Visa Type: EB-3
Who’s Hiring: Long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics
LPNs are vital to patient care and are being recruited internationally, especially from the Philippines, India, Nigeria, and Jamaica.
8. Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $65,000 – $90,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, EB-3
Who’s Hiring: Hospitals, diagnostic centers, urgent care units
X-ray, MRI, and CT scan professionals are eligible for sponsorship and often receive premium pay for night shifts and emergency assignments.
9. Speech-Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $75,000 – $95,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B
Who’s Hiring: Public schools, rehab hospitals, children’s clinics
SLPs are a niche profession with high demand in the U.S. rural school systems and special education programs. H-1B sponsorship is common for this role.
10. Physician / Doctor (Primary Care, General Practitioners)
Average Salary: $150,000 – $250,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, J-1 Waiver, EB-2 NIW
Who’s Hiring: Clinics, hospitals, underserved rural areas
Although U.S. licensing is required, many employers sponsor foreign-trained doctors through the H-1B or the National Interest Waiver (NIW) programs.
11. Mental Health Counselor / Psychiatric Nurse
Average Salary: $60,000 – $100,000/year
Visa Type: H-1B, EB-3
Who’s Hiring: State hospitals, VA facilities, nonprofit mental health clinics
Mental health professionals are in short supply across the U.S., especially those with experience in trauma, addiction, and crisis counseling.
Visa Types for Foreign Healthcare Workers in the USA
| Visa Type | Description | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| EB-3 | Employment-based green card | RNs, CNAs, LPNs, Lab Techs |
| H-1B | Temporary work visa | Doctors, PTs, SLPs, Radiologists |
| EB-2 NIW | Green card with national interest waiver | Physicians in underserved areas |
| J-1 Waiver | For foreign doctors in exchange programs | Physicians & specialists |
Documents Required for U.S. Healthcare Visa Sponsorship
To qualify for a healthcare job in the U.S. with sponsorship, prepare the following:
- Valid international passport
- Degree or diploma in a healthcare field
- Proof of license or registration (if required)
- IELTS/TOEFL scores (for nurses/doctors)
- Professional CV and reference letters
- U.S. credential evaluation (e.g., CGFNS for nurses)
- NCLEX or USMLE pass result (for nurses/doctors)
How to Find Visa-Sponsored Healthcare Jobs in the USA
- Search Specialized Job Boards:
- Use Licensed U.S. Recruitment Agencies:
- Avant Healthcare
- MedPro International
- O’Grady Peyton International
- Check Employer Career Pages:
Many U.S. hospitals post international opportunities directly on their websites under “International Nurses” or “Sponsorship Available.”
Conclusion
The demand for skilled healthcare professionals in the U.S. has opened amazing opportunities for foreigners. Whether you’re a nurse in Nigeria, a caregiver in Ghana, or a therapist in the Philippines, the door is wide open to relocate to the USA with full visa sponsorship.
With the right documents and a licensed agency, you could start your journey to the American dream through one of these high-paying and stable healthcare careers.
FAQs
Can I get a U.S. healthcare job without U.S. experience?
Yes. Many visa-sponsored positions offer training or require just international experience and credentials.
How long does the EB-3 visa take for healthcare workers?
It varies, but the process can take 12–24 months, depending on your country and employer.
Is IELTS required for U.S. nurse jobs?
Yes. You’ll typically need IELTS Academic with a score of 6.5 or higher, or TOEFL as an alternative.
Can I move to the USA as a caregiver without a degree?
Yes. Many CNA and HHA roles under the EB-3 unskilled category don’t require degrees, just experience and willingness to train.
Ayodeji Olomu